Shen Yun Awe-Inspiring and Breathtaking, Says Movie Producer

LOS ANGELES—Sunday evening of April 24 was very special for movie producer Todd Blood in many aspects.

It all began with his youngest son, who told Mr. Blood, “Dad, we’ve got to see this,” and then took him to the Microsoft Theater.

Mr. Blood found himself deeply moved by Shen Yun Performing Arts’ presentation of traditional China’s culture and beliefs through story-based dance and music.

“Oh my God, it is absolutely amazing. I get to see five thousand years of culture all in an evening. I feel so special,” said Mr. Blood after watching the performance. “It’s awe-inspiring and it’s breathtaking … You’re taking us on a journey without having to leave home. Thank you.”

Based in New York, Shen Yun was formed to restore and share with the world China’s traditional culture that has nearly been destroyed under the communist rule.

Through approximately 20 vignettes, audiences are invited to take a journey through 5,000 years of Chinese civilization that includes myths, legends, and modern stories of courage where “mortals and divine beings merge on stage as one,” according to Shen Yun’s website.

Appreciative of the traditional values portrayed in the performance, Mr. Blood said to Shen Yun’s performers: “I’m grateful for what you’re teaching. I’m grateful for what you’re teaching [my son], and what I’m learning.”

Mr. Blood is a founder of Bloodline Films production company, Exhibitors First Distribution company, and The Editing Studio.

He grew up with a movie camera in his hands, and a love for all things film-related. It was not a surprise that he is involved in all aspects of film making. He is an actor, writer, editor, special effects and visual effects designer, costume designer, set decorator, production manager, director, and producer.

As a filmmaker, Mr. Blood was fascinated by the artistic aspect of Shen Yun’s performance: “It’s so amazing.”

At the heart of a Shen Yun performance is classical Chinese dance. “Known for its incredible flips and spins and its gentle elegance, it is one of the most rigorous and expressive art forms in the world,” states the website.

Mr. Blood was impressed by not only the dancers’ grace, but also the athleticism: “I want to know how they float, how they glide so beautifully. I’m really enjoying it,” he said. “[These] guys are amazing, unbelievable … Stand on one foot, hold the other foot [up] for indeterminate time … Shocking.”

He said it was an honor to watch the singers, as well as the reaction of other audience members who were so stunned by the soloists’ performances.

Similar to millions who were delighted by Shen Yun’s orchestra, Mr. Blood said, “I closed my eyes, and just listened to the music. It’s really soothing. I feel privileged to know that I’m listening to something that has crossed the ages. It’s come to us through the millennium … First-class. Beautiful.”

Reporting by NTD Television and Thanh Le

New York-based Shen Yun Performing Arts has four touring companies that perform simultaneously around the world. For more information, visit Shen Yun Performing Arts.